✓ Follow the historic Dun Mountain Railway alignment through native bush and exposed alpine country
✓ Learn about the area’s unique geology and the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary from your local guide
✓ Return the way you came on the Grade 3 rail trail, or take on the Grade 4 descent, an epic 10 km+ singletrack ride down the Maitai Valley
✓ Shared tours run on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, with other days available on request
✓ Accommodation transfers included within 10 km of our Tāhunanui base
Ride through history, geology and native wildlife, right on Nelson’s doorstep.
Discover one of Nelson’s most fascinating rides on this guided tour of the Coppermine Trail, following the route of the historic Dun Mountain Railway. Opened in 1862, it was New Zealand’s first railway, built to haul ore from the Dun Mountain mines down to Nelson’s port in horse-drawn wagons. Today, the old rail alignment makes a gently graded climb through native bush and into exposed alpine country, with sweeping views over Nelson, Tasman Bay and beyond.
Along the way, your guide will bring the landscape to life. The trail crosses the Dun Mountain mineral belt, a striking band of ancient rock pushed up from deep beneath the earth’s crust. The rocks here are so unusual that the mineral-rich rock dunite is named after Dun Mountain itself, and their high metal content creates a stark, otherworldly landscape where only the hardiest plants survive.
The ride also skirts the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary, a predator-free haven in the hills above Nelson where conservation efforts are bringing native wildlife back to the region. Kākāriki, kiwi and tuatara are now breeding within the sanctuary, and the bush echoes with birdsong.
The Coppermine combines local history, native bush and alpine landscapes. A guide helps match the return route to the group’s riding ability and confidence.
Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders wanting nature, history, expansive views and varied trail options.
Follow the historic railway alignment through native bush and exposed alpine country. Your guide will match the return route to the group, from the Grade 3 rail trail to a more technical Grade 4 descent. Private or other-day departures may be available by request.
Transfers and full-suspension MTB or e-MTB options are available. Accommodation transfers are included within 10km of Cycle Nelson’s Tāhunanui base and free parking at our Nelson Airport base.
Our passionate guides are experienced, qualified and ready to share our favourite day ride with you.
Use the booking link below to schedule a tour, or contact Cycle Nelson about alternate dates, bikes or transfers.
